This unique house, designed by its Architect/Owner, is sited on a narrow peninsula between the Honga River and the Chesapeake Bay. The 0.9 acre lot includes a dock with a boat lift across the entry road, a driveway that can accommodate two cars and a bayside outbuilding. The aerial shot illustrates the house’s simple form, but make no mistake, there is nothing simple about this house- it is simply elegant. Every vista and detail have been carefully thought out by thinking inside the box to create a harmonious whole.  

Since the Architect was his own client, he was free to incorporate minimalist design elements he always wanted into this house. He chose a metal roof to hear the sound of rain as it hit the metal; maple flooring instead of the ubiquitous oak;  “allthread” suspension steel rods and turnbuckles to support the entrance canopy and interior exposed steel structural elements. His finishing touch was the small balcony off the second floor where he could feel suspended in air as he savored mid-summer sunsets on the far horizon. 

Before I went in for my tour, I admired the front façade’s carefully composed arrangement of large and small windows that identify the hierarchy of the functions within. The uniform color palette of shades of gray from the exposed foundation of concrete masonry units covered in dark gray plaster, lighter gray Hardie lap siding and the very light gray steel roofing makes the building seem larger than it is. 

The rear elevation has spectacular views  of the Chesapeake Bay and is almost totally transparent except for the solid portion that covers the staircase to the second floor. The elegant grid of the large windows was carefully thought out to utilize stock picture windows and sliding doors from the Home Depot! The waterside outdoor rooms of the first floor’s deck that spans across the length of the house has steps to the lawn and the balcony at the corner of the second floor provides front row seats for the parade of small craft and freighters to and from Baltimore. The small accessory structure was reclad and reroofed to match the house.

The Architect/Owner greeted me at the front door and even though I had seen the MLS pix, I was mesmerized by the living room’s spatial volume and the play of sunlight through the window grid onto the side wall. Both the detailing of the window wall with steel tubular columns and the minimalist window shades in their fully open position maximizes the view across the Chesapeake Bay to the far horizon.

The expanse of white walls and ceiling reflect the sunlight on the walls and the beautiful maple flooring. The combination of the first floor being elevated above the grade and the high sill height of the front windows blocks the view of cars on the street. Except for the trim around the entry door, all of the doors are frameless and have latches instead of hinges. That detail and the windows framed in drywall instead of trim maintain the minimalist look. 

I admired the juxtaposition of the classic “Arco” light and the antique wood piece from Venezuela. The Architect/Owner told me he meticulously stripped and restored the treasured family piece so it now has pride of place in the living room.   I also admired the clever arrangement of holders arranged on the wall near the front door-so easy to drop one’s keys, etc. upon arriving home. The room’s soothing neutrals of the large kilim, the deep caramel seating that picks up the rug’s background color, pillows and the granite top that matches the kitchen countertop create a serene space for relaxing. 

The window wall grid wraps around the corner to offer a panoramic view with the bonus of delightful shadows cast onto the wall. The Swedish wood stove that accommodates vertical logs is a sculptural element and does not block the water view from its position diagonally across from the corner structure. I was quite surprised to learn from the Architect/Owner that what I thought was bespoke  low sleek cabinetry actually came from IKEA! The mix of the top open shelf and closed door provides great storage for DVD’s and I was lucky that one of my fave  Bach pieces was providing background music during my tour.

The open plan living-dining-kitchen’s ceiling plane drops in height at the dining-kitchen area below the second floor loft. Another kilim anchors the glass tabletop and sleek modern chairs. The stylish triangular pendant lighting fixtures are by Fuschia and their transparency blends into window wall beyond.

The partial height wall separates the dining area from the kitchen and I admired the waterfall detail at each end that frames the white insert. The upper cabinets float just under the ceiling plane and their frosted panels both contrasts with the white panels of the other upper cabinets and also expands the space visually. The stairs with the treads’ pine grain contrasts with the monolithic look of the maple flooring and the white risers clearly define each step. 

This compact yet highly efficient kitchen also contains IKEA cabinetry and the Architect/Owner carefully thought out the cabinetry layout. He cleverly set an upper cabinet that is usually placed above a range over a base cabinet to house his “wall” oven above the range.  The stainless steel appliances, white cabinets and the veined granite countertops pleased this cook very much.

Behind the core area of the kitchen and adjacent primary bath is a hall connecting the living room with the primary ensuite. The wall depth was designed to have a recess to accommodate the IKEA adjustable shelving units that are set on casters for ease of cleaning and/or moving. The high square windows provide both daylight and privacy. The break in the shelving units leads to the primary bedroom’s four-piece bath that is also a powder room for guests. The hall vista ends at the full height mirror set against the wall for added perspective.

The spacious primary bedroom spans from the front to back corners of the house. The soft window treatments allow sunlight to filter into the room while maintaining privacy. The kilim anchors the reading and writing area of the bedroom with the stylish woven chaise and IKEA desk with its wood pull down surface. I dearly coveted the stylish lamp with its striped base and mesh metal shade.

The low cabinetry is a twin to the living room’s unit and the nightstands are also from IKEA. Sconces above the bed are mounted the perfect height for reading  and the simple right-angled uplights above add ambient light. The rear wall facing the water fills half the wall and the low horizontal window is set at the perfect height for a first look at the water each morning before rising to begin the day.

The spacious dressing room is outfitted with both a Closet Maid system and wood storage units with ample storage for two. The window tucked below the stair run adds sunlight and a view of the water.

The four-piece primary bath includes a corner shower and a tub. The IKEA shallow lavatory with a porcelain top and tiled high backsplash floats above the tiled floor that extends around the shower walls.

The mirror with a shelf below extends to the corner of the tub with ample storage for both lavatory and tub. The floor tile continues up and around the tub enclosure for a seamless look that expands the space visually.

Retracing my steps back to the stairs, with each step upward I enjoyed an increasingly expansive view of the water, ending at the maximum view at the wide window with its sill just above the second floor landing.  I turned around to savor the angled framing like buttresses at the exterior window wall that were the source of the diagonal shadows on the living room’s wall. The Architect/Owner explained how the window wall at the landing is the only unit that was required to have tempered glass.

At the top of the stairs is a room with another wrap-around window at the corner that matches the living room’s corner unit for symmetry. A sliding door leads to a balcony for a bird’s eye panoramic view of the water, a fresh air break from work or a spot to enjoy spectacular sunsets. The room is currently used as an office-workout area but with some modification it could become a bedroom. Off the short hall from this room to the loft overlooking the living room is a large storage room that contains a stack washer/dryer and a full bath. 

The balcony is a perfect spot for a break from work, or for savoring the sunsets at the end of the work day.

The loft area is furnished as a TV room with a grid of open shelving creating a partition separating this area from the drafting area beyond. The splash of the red futon and the black and white accents of the rug and pillows create a cozy space for watching TV. The railing’s glass panels and slim wood cap disappear into the upper wall of the living room. 

I dearly envied having this fab workspace with its views of the water for breaks from drawing or writing! 

The view from the loft work space overlooking the living room shows how deep the sunlight penetrates the room to create delightful patterns on the wall through the day. Who needs artwork when you have a daily kinetic play of light on the wall?

One of Le Corbusier’s famous quotes was “ Space and light and order. Those are the things that men (and women) need just as much as they need bread or a place to sleep.”  This fab nocturnal shot highlights how well the talented Architect/Owner “thought inside the box” to create a simple yet elegant design through this remarkable house’s transparency, skillful space planning, white walls and ceilings to reflect the sunlight, carefully chosen color accents and stylish lighting fixtures throughout the house. 

Great design is not necessarily expensive-in the hands of a master architect and his clever use of materials and products from Home Depot and IKEA, he created  a truly unique and tranquil haven  without blowing his budget. Bravissimo!

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For more information about this property, contact TTR Sotheby’s International Realty agent Joan Wetmore  at 410-673-3344 (o), 410-924-2432 (c) or [email protected]  or TTR Sotheby’s International Realty agent Melissa Tippett at 410-280-5600  (o), 410-241-7409 (c) or [email protected] For more photographs and pricing, visit redfin.com/MD/Fishing-Creek/2522-Hoopers-Island-Rd-21634/home/14735018, “Equal Housing Opportunity.”

Photography by Moses George Cohen, 202-688-8581, [email protected]

Contributor Jennifer Martella has pursued dual careers in architecture and real estate since she moved to the Eastern Shore in 2004. She has reestablished her architectural practice for residential and commercial projects and is a real estate agent for Meredith Fine Properties. She especially enjoys using her architectural expertise to help buyers envision how they could modify a potential property. Her Italian heritage led her to Piazza Italian Market, where she hosts wine tastings every Friday and Saturday afternoons.

The first neighborhood I discovered after I moved to the Eastern Shore was Travelers Rest. My sister’s in-laws’ property along the Tred Avon River was the scene of many family gatherings and they kindly included me. I soon appreciated how sought after the neighborhood was, due to its being set back far from highway 33/St. Michaels Rd. and its close proximity to both Easton and St. Michaels.  Since there were no through streets, it is perfect for walks or biking after family feasts! 

The six acre property contains the original early 19th century house with later addtions, a pool and two barns, one of which serves as a garage. The house is sited perpendicular to the inlet that leads to the Tred Avon River. 

The wonderful reference book “Where Land and Water Intertwine” includes “Sunnyside” and this photograph in the book shows the one-room deep house  with the  slightly higher roof on the left room that breaks up the massing. The house’s story and a half architecture with a red brick chimney, dormer windows, historic green shutters and the white horizontal wood siding is a great example of  vintage Eastern Shore vernacular style. 

The house was expanded by a former owner who added a wing at the left side but the setback respects the original form of the house. The house was also updated to include a family-kitchen open plan at the other end of the house that faces the water.  The varying roof ridges break up the massing and creates a quite pleasing front elevation against its background of mature trees.

 

The side and rear elevations show how much the additions respected the original part of the house. The exterior door with steps to grade leads to the laundry room for clean up after a dip in the pool. The picnic table’s view of the water makes it a perfect warm weather spot for snacks or meals.

The pool area is open to the sun and has privacy from the trees at the edge of the property. The bird bath is a mini swimming pool for the birds who live in the bird house on top of the post.

I ended my tour of the grounds at the pier. Sitting on the bench, I  admired how the undulating shoreline of the adjacent properties framed the long view across the river from this tranquil spot.

The front door opens into a large foyer with a recessed alcove that is enhanced by the warm wood tones of the original wood floors, the antique desk and the ornamental mirror. I especially admired the hand-painted grass cloth sourced by the Owner’s DC designer and the vista through the living room to the stairs.

The large living room has three wide and long windows on each exterior that provide abundant sunlight. The diagonal pattern of the rug anchors the seating group and makes the spacious room seem even wider than it is. I have a pair of Bergere chairs in my living room and this room’s chairs in their striped pattern also add a touch of French flair. At the side of the room is one of two staircases to the second floor and the alcove with a gentle elliptical arch leads to the main floor primary suite. 

The focal point of the living room is the fireplace that is surrounded by the room’s collection of 19th century furnishings and artwork. This photograph highlights the beautiful wood floors and how the complementary colors of light blue and pale yellow create a serene space for relaxation.

The stylish dining room is located in the original part of the house and its interior design makes it my fave room. I admired the golden walls and window treatments; the juxtaposition of the crystal chandelier with the hand-hewn beams; the patterned rug that is a twin to the living room’s rug, and the Chippendale table, chairs and sideboard that add timeless elegance. A secondary stair leads to the second floor.  

Off the dining room is a pantry/storage room with an exterior door. This space could be converted into a powder room with built-in cabinets for storage that would also be convenient for pool users. 

Opposite the stairs in the dining room is the open plan family-kitchen area with  windows that wrap around the corner for panoramic views. The wall opening at the kitchen side has been fully extended to connect the two spaces. This is the hub of the house with the seating group around the TV and a workspace area. I admired the trim’s historic green color around the windows and on both the baseboard and the ceiling trim.

The diagonal vista from the corner of the kitchen, family room and workspace area shows how well the areas flow together.  The white cabinets become part of the wall and contrast with the wood floors. The window over the sink gives the cooks a view of the water and the high glass shelf in front of one muntin of the window doesn’t block the sunlight or view and is a display space. The high side table with its dark finish that is now an island separates the areas and the countertop could be replaced with a deeper one to accommodate bar stools. 

Having just an alcove for my stack W/D, I envied this sunny laundry/mud room with a bench for sitting down after gardening and taking off one’s wellies or hanging up one’s jackets on the pegs behind the door. Even the laundry has art-the clothes line with white clothing swaying in the breeze is a charming touch of whimsy. 

I retraced my steps back to the living room so I could tour the primary suite that was added by the previous owner. The alcove off the living room leads to a short hall that ends at the spacious primary bedroom and the primary bath. The bedroom is located at the front corner of the house and three windows offer panoramic landscape views. The yellow and brown tones, the patterns of both the bedskirt and window treatments and the lovely antiques creates a soothing space for rest and relaxation. 

The door to the primary bath opens to the side wall of a linen closet and the large room accommodates a tub/shower next to the toilet, a vintage style pedestal lavatory and a rattan settee. The pale wall color highlights the beautiful wood floors. If one wanted a dual lavatory, moving the closet door to face the hall door would leave space for a dual lavatory across the rear wall to the window.

The addition of the primary suite wing created two sets of stairs to the second floor. This huge bedroom located over the primary bedroom is connected to a smaller room, creating a suite for a sitting room or sleeping space for guests’ young children. The room’s high knee walls and sloped ceiling areas creates a soothing enclosure and the white walls and ceiling expands the room’s spatial volume.

Next to the hall bath that serves both bedrooms is a small room currently furnished as an office. With the dormer windows on each exterior wall and the sloped ceiling that follows the underside of the roof rafters, sunlight reflected off these surfaces provides  sunlight through the day. I could easily imagine myself at the rolltop desk writing my Spy articles or spreading out architectural sketches on the drop leaf table.

The bedroom at the other end of the house is located over the kitchen-family area. The red accent wall highlights the room’s high knee walls and sloped ceiling  duplicated in the other bedroom. This bedroom’s side gable wall has double unit windows for water views and its bonus is the skylight for star gazing after bedtime.

Sought after location convenient to both St. Michaels and Easton; great example of the quintessential Colonial architecture of the Eastern Shore; waterfront property with six acres for peace and quiet; well-maintained house with updates that complement the house’s historic features; one-level living with a spacious primary suite and an open-plan family-kitchen with water views; pool and private pier for family fun outdoors; two staircases to the second floor large bedroom suites for additional privacy; pool and private pier for family fun outdoors-great property!  

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For more information about this property, contact Gary Marquardt at Long and Foster Real Estate Company at 410-820-7707 (o), 410-725-6238 (c) or [email protected] , “Equal Housing Opportunity”.

Photography by Janelle Stroup, Through the Lense Photography, (410) 310-6838‬, [email protected]

“Where Land and Water Intertwine”, An Architectural History of Talbot County, Maryland, by Christopher Weeks, with contributions by Michael O. Bourne, John Frazier, Jr., Marsha L. Fritz and Geoffrey Henry; published by the Johns Hopkins University Press and the Maryland Historical Trust.

Contributor Jennifer Martella has pursued dual careers in architecture and real estate since she moved to the Eastern Shore in 2004. She has reestablished her architectural practice for residential and commercial projects and is a real estate agent for Meredith Fine Properties. She especially enjoys using her architectural expertise to help buyers envision how they could modify a potential property. Her Italian heritage led her to Piazza Italian Market, where she hosts wine tastings every Friday and Saturday afternoons.

It is sometimes challenging to find contemporary houses in our area to feature, so I was delighted to see a picture of this home with steep gables that reminded me of Swiss chalets.  I then knew the title for this article had to be “Twin Peaks”. On the day of my tour, I drove along the road lined with houses sited on top of the ridge and I almost passed by two brick piers with “Twin” on the left pier and “Peaks” on the other! 

Frank Lloyd Wright’s organic site and architecture design philosophy in harmony with nature is best expressed in his quote” No house should ever be on a hill or on anything. It should be of the hill. Belonging to it. Hill and house should live together, each the happier for the other.” As I continued my approach past the houses on either side of this property, I realized this house was indeed not “on a hill” but was sited between the top of the hill and the Tuckahoe River. 

The three-story house in nestled in the woods and opens up to the water with window walls on the second and third floors and a deck that offer panoramic views up and down the river. Between the two chalet roofed forms, the deck flows into a recessed area with a long table for al-fresco dining. The deck also provides protection for the ground floor’s concrete terrace that is both a warm weather game room and a protected storage area for firewood. 

Steps from the deck to the ground floor connects the house to the landscape with other options for relaxing outdoors on a grouping of Adirondack chairs at the side of the house or the pier at the shoreline. At the rear of the house, you are totally unaware of the adjacent houses built on top of the hill and the house’s earth toned colors of the siding and roofing blends into its wooded setting. 

 

The deck’s span across the house creates bird’s eye views of the water and connects the chalet roof forms of the living room and the family room for easy indoor-outdoor flow. Its furnishings for sitting and dining create a great outdoor room for entertaining.  At the deck level, you also see the subtle bow of the window walls’ perimeter for panoramic views of the water. 

The chalet roof forms of the rear elevation extend through the house to the front elevation. From the parking area, a sturdy covered walkway leads to the entry door at the third floor. The bridge allows the rooms on the second and third floors of the house to have windows for daylight and peaceful views of the landscape. 

The front door opens to a “T’ shaped hall leading to two bedroom ensuites and overlooks to both the living and dining rooms on the second floor. I admired the beautiful pine floors and how the knotty pine walls provide texture and break up the expanse of the walls in contrast to the floor’s pine planks. The craftsman style door is in keeping with the chalet vibe. At one end of the “T” are the stairs down to the second floor. 

Both third floor bedrooms have great interior architecture from the high knee walls and the flat portion of the ceiling. I especially admired the detailing of the front walls’ trio of low fixed glass panes without sills that allow the wood floor to float above the landscape beyond and the large windows above for landscape views. The low octagonal window above the bedding is the perfect height for the family pet to enjoy a private landscape view.  Both the front wall and the rear wall of the bedroom have white painted vertical cladding and white rafters that balances the side walls of knotty pine. 

Coming out of the bedroom, I was mesmerized by the spatial volume of the overlook to the family room below. The horizontal framing creates a “ceiling” plane for the family room’s seating area and the black color of the horizontal and sloped framing accentuates the geometry of the two-story space. What a fab vista across the river to the opposite shore!

One of the second floor baths has wood flooring and light gray walls of vertical cladding that blends into the light gray tiles of the shower surround. The glass shower door, large round mirror, the black fittings and hardware on the white lavatory cabinet complete the stylish look. 

This third floor bedroom is a twin to the other bedroom’s interior architecture, window design, materials and colors.  This bedroom has a view of the covered walkway bridge.

Having explored the third floor, I was eager to see the main floor below. Like the other chalet style roof, the horizontal framing creates a “ceiling” plane for the living room’s seating area below and the black color of the horizontal and sloped framing accentuates the geometry of the space. The wood stairs with black railings weaves through the framing to the living room below. 

The living room’s beams are wide and deep so they can contain not only the structural depth necessary for support but also recessed lighting for the room. The dramatic window wall also has a door to access the deck. The two-story living room with its high knee walls and sloped ceiling that follows the underside of the roof framing is a dramatic space with tranquil views of the water and the  opposite shoreline.

The stairs’ open risers and design becomes a sculptural element.  The interior wall of the living room is partially clad in stone to accent the TV and the fireplace. Doors behind the wall lead to the primary ensuite.

The front wall of the second floor is at grade level, since the house is set back from the ivy covered bank that was cut into the hill. The bank’s slope allows sunlight to infill the space and gives the primary suite total privacy. The window wall infilled with planes of glass and transoms maximizes the views of nature and the soft colors of the furnishings create a restful sleeping space.

The stylish primary bath’s mirror above the dual lavatory, the shower’s mix of tiles in varying sizes, textures and colors and the pendant lighting create a one of a kind primary bath. I especially admired how the circular elements of the mirror are centered over each lavatory. 

The kitchen is located between the primary ensuite and the living-dining area. The white cabinets stand out against the pale gray walls and the island’s contrasting color adds interest to the space. The veined granite of the island’s countertop and the backsplash in colors of gray, blue and white add great texture. Over the island is a pendant light whose thin frame and candlelight style bulbs disappear into the space’s volume. The doorway to the adjacent family-dining area aligns with the door on the other side of the kitchen to the living room for easy flow through the house. 

The kitchen’s island is on axis to the deepest part of the deck that accommodates a long table and a grille for warm weather meals. At this level of the house, there is a direct view to the river and the shoreline beyond.

The family-dining area spans the depth of the house and the spacious size easily accommodates a full size wrap-around sofa for relaxing at the end of the day or Sunday afternoon naps. The black framing wall and ceiling grid breaks up the length of the room and provides ambient lighting.   especially enjoyed standing in the middle of the room and admiring the views through both the front and rear walls infilled with glass for bringing nature inside. Behind one sofa are the stairs to the ground floor.

This view of the ivy covered bank outside the dining area is a perfect illustration of biophilic design, a movement whose aims are the creation of spaces that are in harmony with, and connect to, nature. I recently completed a CE course on biophilic design to renew my architectural license and learned more about the biophilic principles that connect us to the natural world to improve our physical and mental well-being. Most of the examples were of interiors that featured living “green” walls. Imagine how different this space would be if the original Owner had opted for a concrete retaining wall instead of this living sloped wall covered in ivy! I stood before the wall just after morning fog had lifted and silently thanked him/her felt for this peaceful view.

The ground level includes a media room and storage areas. The outline of the concrete flooring underneath the deck above creates a warm weather room for games. 

Tranquil setting along the Tuckahoe River for panoramic views; peace and privacy from the siting of the house “of the hill”; outdoor rooms of the second floor deck that spans across the house and the ground floor’s concrete terrace; main floor primary suite with two other bedrooms ensuites on the third floor; contemporary style with Swiss chalet roof forms; all this and close proximity to Easton. I believe Frank Lloyd Wright would agree that this hill and house live together, “each the happier for the other.” The listing agent told me an agent had shown the house to a native Swiss who loved it, but you don’t have to be Swiss to be intrigued by this unique house that has been totally renovated and is fully furnished!

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For more information about this property, contact Melissa Tippett with TTR Sotheby’s International Realty at 410-280-5600  (o), 410-241-7409 (c) or [email protected] .For more photographs and pricing, visit https://www.sothebysrealty.com/eng/associate/180-a-df210824131810858986/melissa-tippett ,“Equal Housing Opportunity.”

Photography by Moses George Cohen, 202-688-8581, [email protected],

https://linktr.ee/delmarvaaerial360

www.DelmarvaAerial360.com

Contributor Jennifer Martella has pursued dual careers in architecture and real estate since she moved to the Eastern Shore in 2004. She has reestablished her architectural practice for residential and commercial projects and is a real estate agent for Meredith Fine Properties. She especially enjoys using her architectural expertise to help buyers envision how they could modify a potential property. Her Italian heritage led her to Piazza Italian Market, where she hosts wine tastings every Friday and Saturday afternoons.

Today’s house is a story and a half house Cape Cod design that has the elements of this popular style: compact floor plan, symmetry in plan and elevation; side gable walls, and windows flanking the front door and single dormer windows. The white lap siding is accented by the blue shutters, entry door and the sidelight panels.  

I have written before of my being a history buff who can’t resist pulling over to read historic markers and I am especially interested in ones that provide information about demolished properties. I learned that the neighborhood in which today’s feature is located was once the property of Admiral Franklin Buchanan, who was the first superintendent of the Naval Academy. Unfortunately, “The Rest”, his three story frame house was demolished but its name lives on as a street name for this subdivision along the Miles River. 

Not all of the houses in the neighborhood are waterfront properties like this house is. The rear elevation of the house opens up to tranquil views of the Miles River through a variety of windows and doors. At the main level, the sunroom’s  wrap-around windows and French door, the dining room’s sliding doors and bay window and the kitchen’s triple windows provide views up and down the river. The double window units at the second floor offer bird’s eye views of the river. 

The double garage has extra space for lawn and garden maintenance and a ramp to the pair of exterior door for easy access.  

The spacious deck is bordered by steps to the deep lawn. The deck spans across the house and is a great space for warm weather relaxation or al-fresco dining. The giant Magnolia tree is poised and ready to burst into bloom as a harbinger of spring. It was easy for me to linger during my tour to appreciate the site’s peace and privacy and the tranquil view of the river’s opposite shore with views of mature trees that hide other houses.

From the pier, I appreciated the house’s massing with its center story and a half wing flanked by one-story wings, the curves of the shoreline’s high bank and how the grouping of tall mature trees provide unobstructed winter views of the river.

The pier and dock are reminders that boating weather will soon return. This tranquil vista from the pier of the outline of trees on the opposite shore with only one house in sight was soothing after my hectic morning.

The front door opens into a center hall with a direct vista through the house’s  sliding doors to the lawn and the river beyond.  The beautiful wood floors and the light gray walls and white trim flow throughout the main floor rooms. I admired the simple charm of the wood stair treads without a runner. The double doors opposite the stairs lead to a bedroom/sitting room. 

This flexible space is by day a cozy sitting room but at night its sleeper sofa can accommodate guests with an adjoining bathroom for an ensuite. I admired how the door to the bathroom is aligned with the bathroom’s window for views of the landscape instead of a wall. I love vintage posters, and this poster for Dionis Gran Spumante Champagne portrays a jester kneeling next to a bottle of champagne holding up a glass is a great focal point for the room. 

The spacious bathroom has a tiled shower with a glass wall to extend the space.  The ladder style towel rack is a great solution for a room with a small amount of space for wall mounted towel racks. The pocket door is also a great choice since a standard door would open against either the shower or the lavatory. I especially liked the angled mirror and how it reflects the window’s view. The color palette of light blue walls, subtlety veined top of the off-white lavatory cabinet and the light gray flooring would please any guest.

On the other side of the stair hall is the spacious living room. Built-in millwork around the front window has a mix of open shelves for books, family memorabilia, etc. and the cabinets below can store games and DVDs for watching TV by the fire.  The window treatment for the front and side windows provides both seated privacy and sunlight above. I was delighted to discover more vintage posters-this  trio features the iconic French lipstick “Le Rouge Baiser” (red for kissing). 

The vista from the living room reveals the open plan living-dining kitchen floor plan through the dining room’s bay window for views of the river.

 

The stylish dining room’s contemporary pendant lighting fixture, wood table anchored by the large kilim and the texture of the chairs centered on the water view through the bay window create a charming eclectic look for memorable meals. The sliding doors on the left lead to the deck and the French doors on the side wall lead to the sunroom.

My fave room was this sunroom, a delightful indoor-outdoor space with the exterior door to the deck. The wrap-around windows filters sunlight deep in the room so the room’s deep blue color is not overwhelming. 

 From the sofa, one can see the river as it bends around the shoreline. The desk and chair are set up for computer work and for taking breaks from the computer to savor the landscape and river views.  

The spacious kitchen is the last part of the “L” shaped open plan living-dining-kitchen. I have specified these bar stools and I can attest to their comfort. I also  liked how here their stained wood finish contrasts with the white cabinets. Locating the row of built-in cabinets next to the R/F created deep  space for storage.  It reminded me of a kitchen I designed for a client who had two complete sets of Deruta ceramic dinnerware and serving pieces that would have filled this wall! The door at the rear wall leads to the laundry and two-car garage.

The light gray walls, wood flooring and stainless steel appliances highlights the white cabinets.  The  glass fronted upper cabinets and open shelves keep the most used items close by the  cook. Even though the kitchen is large, the tight work triangle of sink, dishwasher, range and R/F  are just a few steps from each other. I have several coil baskets and this reddish one adds a  splash of color to the island.

The stairs to the second floor end at a short hall that connects the primary suite with a guest bedroom ensuite. The primary bedroom spans the depth of the house so it has charming interior architecture with knee walls and sloped ceiling.  The single dormer at the front of the house, a side window at the gable wall and a double window in the shed dormer at the rear of the house provide abundant sunlight. The room’s dimensions easily accommodates the king-size bed and an office/sitting area at the rear wall. The area under the eaves has a door for access to storage. 

The primary bath has a furniture style dual lavatory cabinet with a combination of drawers and an open shelf for storage. The glass door of the shower expands the space. I usually prefer individual framed mirrors but I liked how the tall and long mirror reflects the rear wall’s two windows’ view of the landscape and water.

The guest bedroom ensuite is set up for a young guest who I imagine enjoys falling asleep in the cozy nook created by the deep wall’s shed dormer. Opposite the nook is the bathroom and next to the bedroom is a storage room. Removing the wall would expand the suite and create a play space for children.

Quiet subdivision due to no through street, waterfront property, classic Cape Cod architecture, main level open plan living-dining-kitchen open plan; main floor bedroom ensuite and two second floor bedroom ensuites; sunroom with wrap-around windows for panoramic water views; spacious waterside deck for relaxing with family and friends; all this and a location between the amenities of Easton and St. Michaels!

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 For more photographs and pricing, contact Cornelia C. Heckenbach, Associate Broker at Long and Foster Real Estate, 410-310-1229 (c),  [email protected]  or visit www.stmichaelsmdwaterfront.com,  “Equal Housing Opportunity.”

Aerial Photography by Robert Thayer, 443-253-1716

Exterior and Interior Photography by Vince Ferrari, 301-395-3245

Historic photograph from the Talbot Historical Society Collections that was included in the 11-20-2015  Talbot Spy article “Talbot Historical Society Project Rewind: Finding Civil War Admiral Buchanan’s “The Rest”.

Contributor Jennifer Martella has pursued dual careers in architecture and real estate since she moved to the Eastern Shore in 2004. She has reestablished her architectural practice for residential and commercial projects and is a real estate agent for Meredith Fine Properties. She especially enjoys using her architectural expertise to help buyers envision how they could modify a potential property. Her Italian heritage led her to Piazza Italian Market, where she hosts wine tastings every Friday and Saturday afternoons.

 

Since my most recent Houses of the Week have been historic or Eastern Shore vernacular houses, I felt as the Monty Python movie proclaimed “ and now (it’s time) for something completely different” this week. Rock Hall is always a happy hunting ground for me and this house’s blend of contemporary and craftsman styles caught my eye. The charming coastal cottage was designed by the original owners who built the house in 2014 and the current owners bought the property in 2019. Instead a row of houses aligned along the street, this house and the houses on each side of it are set back from each other to maximize both views and privacy.  At the rear of the property are marshes and Swan Creek and this house’s views of the water expand as one goes from the first floor to the third floor.   

 

The large mature tree frames the view of the front elevation in its setting of lush landscaping and wood fencing for privacy. After parking my car in the gravel driveway lined with granite edging, I walked up a stone path between orange wattle trees and the trunks of crape myrtle trees waiting for their summer debuts. The path becomes a terrace of larger stones that ends at the wide wood steps to the front porch that spans across the front of the house. I especially admired how the house blends into the landscape with the earth tones of the  exterior paint colors the Owners selected and the deep red color of the porch’s metal shed roof and the eave returns at the top floor’s roof were perfect accents. The craftsman roof bracket and the contemporary large round window create a delightful juxtaposition of styles.

The side elevation is long due to its ground floor containing three car bays and another bay for a workshop. To downplay its length, the elevation is enhanced by projections of a box bay and a shed roof and enhanced by the texture of the exposed concrete panels, the vertical board and batten siding, the box bay’s grid of trim and the lattice grid enclosing the porch crawl space. The walls of warm taupe, the white trim bands and the deep red color of the shed roof over the garage doors create an appealing composition.

The side elevation’s box bay grid wraps around the rear elevation’s first and second floors to break up the massing of the house’s rectangular footprint. The French railings add an interesting layer to the elevation and I admired how the posts are aligned with the doors’ frames so the dark pickets disappear into the glass for clear views from within. The pair of sliding doors at the second level and the deck at the third level offer panoramic views of Swan Creek.

The deep rear yard ends at the marshes that blend into Swan Creek and the wooden fence provides privacy. It will soon be spring and the deciduous trees will once again offer shade and color. The row of large light colored stones defining a planting area resembles a giant necklace stretched along the ground. 

My old farmhouse has only a brick stoop instead of a proper front porch so I envied this spacious porch. The fixed shutters cleverly break up the wall of board and batten siding and creates a coastal look. The pale salmon floorboards and the deep blue rocking chairs between a wooden table create a cozy outdoor room for winding down at the end of one’s workday.

The house’s layout is a coastal design with the porch steps breaking up the stair run to the first floor above the garage level. The front door opens into a foyer with an alcove for a hall tree to leave jackets and totes behind. At the top of the stairs is a wonderful diagonal vista of the living-dining room. The large space easily accommodates the sectional sofa and ottoman with the long coffee table whose top was originally a pair of wood doors. The round ottoman is made of thick rope adds great texture.  The windows and French doors are oriented to the view of Swan Creek through the adjacent sunroom. 

One of the current owners uses the sunroom as a studio with the telescope providing breaks for watching wildlife. The thin black French rail disappears into the landscape beyond. One side of the room leads to a small deck with a grille for summer cooking. If one wanted a separate dining room, it would be easy to linger over dinner in this space with twilight views over the water turning into the expanse of the night sky lit by stars.

The box bay in the living room surrounds the fireplace that is a focal point with its stone cladding between built-in cabinets. The high square windows provide privacy and also free up the wall for books, art or family photographs.

Another diagonal vista connects the living-dining area to the kitchen. The storage unit utilizes the space under the landing of the stairs and the mirrored inset wall captures the reflection of the French doors’ glass. Above the wall is a clever “found” stained glass panel that perfectly infills the stair landing’s wall and filters light into the stairwell. The vintage barber’s chair is now retired to its special place in the corner of the room. 

As I moved into the kitchen area, I realized the warm wood top of the island was made from reclaimed pine with a beautiful patina that accents the off-white cabinets. I admired the backsplash’s grid that echoed the house’s exterior walls, the granite countertop and the glass fronted parts of the upper cabinets.  

The stainless steel appliances, playful cabinet pulls that add a touch of whimsy and the geometric patterned rug complete the kitchen’s stylish look.

The second floor has a bedroom at the front of the house with the row of high square windows creating the perfect backdrop for accommodating a range of headboard heights. The built-in storage cupboards flanking a window seat provide ample storage. I especially liked the twig style wood nightstands, the serene colors of the peach and gray bed linens and the light green walls.

The second floor bath is accessed from the hall next to the front bedroom and does dual duty as a powder room for guests. I loved the contemporary touches of the translucent lavatory vessel bowls, the dark, sleek fittings and the fab tile in a truly inspired zig zag pattern that visually expands the space. Opposite the lavatory cabinets are the shower with a front glass wall and the closet for the stack washer and dryer. The window in the toilet compartment has both a frosted panel and a stained glass insert to provide both light and privacy.

The stairs from the second to the third floor opens onto this space that is a perfect office with a work table directly below a skylight for visual breaks from one’s computer. For breaks of another kind, a mini fridge and microwave in a corner are standing by.

As much as I admired the second floor bath, the third floor bath exceeded my expectations. I loved the interior architecture of the white high knee wall and the ceiling with a skylight, juxtaposed with the dark tones of the flooring, cabinetry, tub base and the black fixtures. (Who would have thought of a black toilet and tub) but here, both are in harmony with the interior design. I especially liked the tub surround’s irregular and cascading pebble cladding. The bathroom has pocket doors at each side wall for access from both bedrooms on this floor.

The front bedroom also has great interior architecture from the high knee walls and sloped side ceiling. The focal point of the huge round window beckoned me and as I stood before it, I appreciated how the top rail of the lower section of the thin blinds blocks the view of the road below so all I saw were the roofs and landscape of Rock Hall. The off white interior design and the round window is very Zen; even this light sleeper could imagine nodding off very quickly in this serene space. 

If I were a lucky guest, I would hope to claim this spacious bedroom with knee walls and sloped ceilings that create a calming sense of enclosure. With the adjacent deck, this space becomes an indoor-outdoor ensuite. There is ample sunlight from the skylight, single window and French doors that lead to the deck.

The deck becomes a warm weather sitting room for the third floor bedroom and on summer nights I would be tempted to set up a portable bed and sleep under the stars! 

Location in one of the Upper Shore’s most picturesque villages, close to the sandy beach along the Chesapeake Bay, Marina, shops and the famed Mainstay for live music. Stylish Craftsman/Contemporary architecture surrounded by lush gardens with fencing for privacy; coastal floor plan that begins with a ground floor three-car garage and workshop area; second level with the open plan living-dining-sunroom-kitchen, bedroom and bath/laundry; third level with two other spacious bedrooms, office area and hall bath. A full front porch for relaxing plus panoramic bird’s eye views of Swan Creek and wildlife in the marsh and Swan Creek from both the second floor’s sunroom and the third floor deck. This house offers both privacy and peace- as I walked through the rooms, I was struck by how quiet the house was, due to the 2 x 6 exterior walls and extra insulation. All this and a Rock Hall location too! 

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For more information about this property, contact Cindy Genther, 2024 Top Sales Producing Associate for the Bay Area Association of Realtors, at Rock Hall Properties Real Estate, 410-639-4003 (o), 443-480-1953, (c) or [email protected]. For more pictures and pricing, visit www.rockhallproperties.com ,  “Equal Housing Opportunity”.

Photography by Steve Buchanan Photography, 301- 996-7295

Contributor Jennifer Martella has pursued dual careers in architecture and real estate since she moved to the Eastern Shore in 2004. She has reestablished her architectural practice for residential and commercial projects and is a real estate agent for Meredith Fine Properties. She especially enjoys using her architectural expertise to help buyers envision how they could modify a potential property. Her Italian heritage led her to Piazza Italian Market, where she hosts wine tastings every Friday and Saturday afternoons.